Vatican

The Vatican is the smallest independent country in the entire world at just 0.17 square miles, and is surrounded entirely by the city of Rome. It’s also ruled by one, all-powerful leader: the Pope.

Inside these walls, however, is a population of priests and nuns from many different nationalities. It’s also home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Art Galleries housing art belonging to popes past and present.

If you’re looking to make your own pilgrimage beneath the Basilica’s domed edifice, start here.